PICU Nurse Career Guide

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Overview

A Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Registered Nurse (RN) is a specialized healthcare professional who provides critical care and specialized medical attention to infants, children and adolescents with life-threatening conditions or complex medical needs. Staff and Travel PICU RNs work in a high-stress and fast-paced environment, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to provide the highest level

Education

To become a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit RN, you need to start by obtaining a nursing degree. The most common educational path is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which typically requires four years of study. A BSN program provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers pediatric nursing, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and critical care concepts. Clinical rotations in

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

While specific qualifications may vary depending on the employer and the complexity of the PICU, most positions require RN licensure and experience in pediatric nursing or critical care. Gaining experience in a pediatric setting or an intensive care unit can be beneficial for aspiring PICU RNs. Many employers also prefer or require additional certifications, such as the Pediatric Advanced Life

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
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A stethoscope held in one hand

Skills

PICU RNs need a diverse set of skills to excel in their role. They must have a strong understanding of pediatric anatomy, physiology and developmental stages, as well as the principles of critical care nursing for pediatric patients. Technical proficiency in managing life-support equipment and interpreting pediatric-specific vital signs is crucial for providing immediate interventions. Effective communication and collaboration skills

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4.8

13.6k Ratings

4.4

1.5k Ratings

Responsibilities

The primary responsibility of a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit RN is to provide specialized and compassionate care to critically ill pediatric patients. PICU RNs closely monitor patients' vital signs, administer medications and operate life-support equipment to stabilize their conditions. They work collaboratively with physicians, nurse practitioners and other healthcare providers to develop and implement individualized care plans. Additionally, PICU RNs

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
PICU Nurse
$1,721-3,058/week

The average salary for a PICU Nurse is $2,385.38 per week.

Last updated on December 3, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Pros of being a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit RN include the opportunity to work with young patients and their families, the chance to make a significant impact on critically ill children's lives and the satisfaction of contributing to positive patient outcomes. This specialty offers potential for professional growth and advancement as PICU RNs gain expertise in pediatric critical care and

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PICU Nurse Jobs


View job details for Travel Nurse RN - PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care

  • los angeles, CA
  • HONESTLOVE GLOBAL PROFESSIONAL STAFFING
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights

$4,301/week

Estimated pay package
Posted 5 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care

  • Syracuse, NY
  • MedicalPeople Staffing, LLC
  • 3x12 hrs, Nights

$3,938/week

Posted 6 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care

  • New York, NY
  • LanceSoft
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights

$3,865/week

Posted 11 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - PICU - Pediatric Intensive Care

  • San Diego, CA
  • Travel Nurses, Inc.
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights
  • Referral Bonus

$3,835/week

Estimated pay package

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